As the move to electric vehicles (EVs) gains pace, many fleet operators face a clear challenge. How do you charge more vehicles without spending huge sums on new sites?
Shared charging infrastructure is proving to be a practical answer.
Why shared charging infrastructure matters
At its heart, this idea lets different fleets or users share one charging depot or hub. This simple but smart approach cuts costs, uses chargers more efficiently, and supports a stronger EV infrastructure strategy.
It allows businesses, councils, and private operators to share costs and work together. Shared charging brings fleets into the electric future faster, while supporting broader climate goals.
These hubs are often managed by a third party or formed through local partnerships. Users agree on when and how they access chargers and share costs fairly.
This model suits busy areas where space for new charging points is limited. It also helps smaller operators who may not be able to afford private charging stations.
What are the key benefits of shared charging for fleets?
Shared charging brings clear, practical benefits for fleets of all sizes. Here are some key advantages:
- Lower upfront investment: Companies share the cost of chargers, power upgrades, and land.
- Better charger use: Chargers stay active rather than sitting idle for long periods.
- Flexibility: Fleets can scale up or down without large long-term commitments.
- Cost savings: Ongoing costs, such as maintenance and energy bills, have better distribution within the ecosystem.
- Supports wider EV goals: Fits well within local and national EV infrastructure strategies.
- Faster deployment: Shared sites can be built and opened more quickly.
- Smarter grid use: Shared hubs can balance demand and use off-peak power.
- Better land use: Fewer sites means less wasted urban space.
- Access to better tech: Fleets benefit from high-end chargers and smart systems.
- Additional revenue: Fleets with spare capacity can rent chargers to others.
These benefits help fleets electrify sooner, more affordably, and with less waste.
The challenges
Despite its strengths, shared charging does come with a few challenges. Some of the most common include:
- Availability: Installation of depot-based charging is still on the rise. Many operators are still learning what’s possible on their site.
- Scheduling conflicts: Fleets may need the same charger slots at the same time.
- Upfront costs: Even when shared, the initial investment can be high.
- Interoperability: Depot charging stations are often designed to meet the needs of the organization. Shared charging must promote interoperability and ease of use.
- Access management: Clear rules, bookings, and monitoring are needed to avoid disputes.
- Data and privacy: Partners must protect sensitive usage data and keep it secure.
Shared charging case-studies
Shared charging already works well in real-life projects. Here are a few clear examples:
First Bus
In the UK, First Bus has opened its depots to other operators. Spare charging capacity is rented to smaller bus or coach fleets. This cuts costs and keeps chargers in use overnight.
Nottingham City Council’s regional hubs
Nottingham City Council in the UK has tested regional hubs for local fleets. Taxis, vans, and buses share public charging points across the city. This setup works well for smaller operators who can’t afford their own chargers.
CALSTART’s multi-fleet sites
In the US, CALSTART backs shared charging hubs for freight and delivery companies. Multi-fleet charging sites help small or medium operators electrify their vehicles without huge costs. This model removes barriers and helps more fleets go green.
How shared charging supports a green EV strategy
Shared charging makes fleet electrification faster and more cost-effective. It means fewer idle chargers and makes better use of local land and energy supplies.
It also supports local climate targets. Public and private partners can work together to share costs and benefits.
These public-private partnerships make shared hubs more realistic for fleets with tight budgets. They help remove risks and spread investment.
So, by lowering costs and using resources better, shared charging speeds up the switch to EVs. It plays a big role in building a cleaner, smarter transport system that works for everyone.
For any operator ready to take the next step, exploring modern EV fleet management solutions is essential. These services help manage charging, track usage, and plan smart routes.